Steve T. Smith (STS) / Leigh Smith (Mohawk Nation) Early Talking Earth / Mohawk Pottery Period
Title: ” Central Sun ”
Size: 6″ Height
Signed: Inscribed to base: “Central Sun, Talking Earth, Mohawk Pottery” alongside a sgraffito peace pipe with hanging feathers.
Provenance: Private Collection, Ontario
Price: $895.00 CAD
This 6-inch teepee effigy pottery is a significant early work by Mohawk artists Steve T. Smith (STS) / Leigh Smith, originating from the transitional period between the Mohawk Pottery cooperative and Talking Earth. Hand-built from a rich, solid red-brown clay, it features deep, hand-carved sgraffito scenes—a “Central Sun” medallion and a teepee—where the matte, carved lines contrast with a burnished, chocolate-brown surface. Unlike later, lighter, or slip-coated work, this piece showcases the foundational, authentic fabric of early Six Nations pottery revitalization. The base features an exceptionally detailed incised signature accompanied by a traditional ceremonial peace pipe adorned with feathers.
About Steve Smith / Leigh Smith & Talking Earth Pottery
Founded by Elda “Bun” Smith and continued by her son, Steve, Talking Earth Pottery has been central to Haudenosaunee pottery revitalization since the mid-20th century. The Smith’s work, which merges traditional symbolism with distinctive, masterful form, is highly collectible and featured in major museum collections, including the Royal Ontario Museum and the Canadian Museum of History.
Founded by Elda “Bun” Smith and continued by her son, Steve, Talking Earth Pottery has been central to Haudenosaunee pottery revitalization since the mid-20th century. The Smith’s work, which merges traditional symbolism with distinctive, masterful form, is highly collectible and featured in major museum collections, including the Royal Ontario Museum and the Canadian Museum of History.